Kiteboarding News

Labels: Airush, Kites

Flow 07 FAQ

What type of rider is the Flow aimed at?
We developed the Flow to cover a broad range of riders from entry level
Freeride to advance freestyle and wave riding. The focus was on reliable
performance and ease of use. First time riders should consider the DNA
while more advanced freestyle riders might consider one of our C-Kites
or the Halo for maximum hang time.

Why do you call the Flow a Hybrid/SLE, isn’t the Flow a BOW kite?:
Technically the Flow is not a BOW kite, in order for a kite to be a true bow
kite, the trailing edge needs to be concave and be curved enough that it
runs over a vertical line drawn from the two rear attachment points,
which does not occur in all Flow sizes. Secondly true bow kites have 2:1
pulley on the bar, which the Flow does not feature. Typically BOW kites
should fall within the original patent which covers these two points so we
decided to go with the term SLE or Hybrid.

What is the difference between the Flow (SLE/Hybrid) and the Halo (BOW)?
· The Flow is lighter on the bar and the steering on the flow is
more direct with more feel – This is due to the reason that the wingtips of
the flow are less swept back, this allows us to use less struts, moves the
center of effort further forward. Most importantly this allows an increased
depower range for the same given bar movement, therefore we could
avoid the 2:1 pulley configuration on the bar.
· The flow offers increased stability over the Halo - As flow has
a slightly deeper foil with the center of effort further forward. In addition
the canopy curve is not as flat as the Halo. This does have an effect on
low wind performance and glide rate when jumping.

Why does the flow have such a long depower?
With the development of bar release safety the traditional role of the
depower range of the kite has changed. The lower part of the depower
line (closest to the rider) can be viewed as “useable depower”, while the
upper part can be view as “bar release safety travel”

Why is traditional strap replaced by a cleat on the trigger release?
The role of the depower strap has changed, traditionally riders using C-
Kites would use the strap for micro adjustments while kiting. Due to the
extended Depower range of the Flow bar system and the increased
effectiveness of the depower function, it is seen more as a one off setting
to find the sweet spot of the kite in given wind conditions. In the end this
allowed us to offer a significantly simpler configuration.

Why are there no Pulleys on the bar?
The Flow does not have outside bar pulleys this gives a more direct “C-
Kite” feel to the steering and bar feedback. More info on this is covered in
the question “What is the difference between the Flow (SLE/Hybrid) and
the Halo (BOW)”

Is the Flow Suitable for unhooked riding?
Yes, Most definitely one of the original parameters of the design was to
make the Flow as versatile as possible for all styles of riding. One great
outcome of the new design was the unhooked performance.

What is the performance differences between the Flow, a C-kite and a 5th line “BOW” kite?:
The focus on the Flow is safety, simplicity and all round performance.
From our perspective bridles give the highest level of what we term “Bar
Release Safety” as the pivot point on the kite can be higher up the
leading edge through the use of bridles. A 5th line bow kite falls
somewhere in between a standard c Kite and a bridled SLE or BOW
design (see Below for an explanation on these). We still offer 5th line C-
Kites for the performance-oriented rider who is not as safety focused.

Could you convert the Flow to a 5th line style kite without the bridles?:
Technically you could set the Flow up in the 5th line configuration with a
very limited bridle or even no bridle. However during our design process
the kite was optimized to run with bridles. We felt that for the target
customer they would be looking at safety and simplicity, and knowing that
the kite was always running in its optimum configuration.

How do you Relaunch the Flows?:
Should you have a sufficient amount of wind in the canopy the Flows are
best relaunched by NOT swimming towards the kite and waiting for the
kite to roll along their LE and relaunch. In light wind condition you can
also launch the flows in a traditional C-Kite method, by swimming towards
the kite and allowing it to move to the side of the window on its back.

Labels: Airush, Kites

PKRA SPAIN by Airush kiter Katja Roose | Print | E-mail
Talking about wind…

Just graduated and already again in the airplane. The next PKRA event stops in Spain. The first day I arrive, there are no kites in the air. And we are talking about the ‘Mekka’ for surfers and kiters! The wind is blowing 50-60 knots offshore, pfff talking about wind…
The event starts Tuesday with the trails for the men. I have the first day off, which is perfect to get used to the sun and the temperature.
Wednesday the main event starts. My first heat is against Angela Peral. In these strong winds I probably have a chance against her. I just go for it! I pulled out a lot of powered tricks and a huge unhooked kite loop. But her technical difficulty won over my power and variety. Although it was a 2 to 1 decision by the judges. Really bad luck this time.
The double elimination started at Thursday. Only some men heats were done. The wind was less than the last days, so I could train a little with my 8. Free riding is a perfect way to get rid of your nerves.
Friday I am in the first heat on the water against Carol Freitas. Again I am really nervous, which results in shitty tricks in the first few minutes. So stupid. But I recover and start to fight back with powered raileys and s-bends. In the end of the heat Carol crashes really hard and puts her kite down. I pull out an back surface pass in the same time, so I win this heat.
Next heat is against Emma York. Again I ride like I never kited before. I feel so weak; I hardly can hold the bar. But I was still able to do some unhooked tricks in his strong wind, while Emma had a really hard time and couldn’t do much. I advanced and had to go against Jo Wilson. I am determined to win this time. While my head is in the right mood, my body doesn’t seem to listen at all. Every time I land a trick, but than I can’t hold the bar anymore. I think I swam more than I kited. So that was an easy heat for Jo, who had I quite good heat herself.
Overall I end up at a nice 7th place. Not bad if you think about the fact that last week around this time I graduated. Probably I am so weak and tired because of the ‘de-stressing’…
Source Katjas weblog :: http://www.protestboardwear.com/blogs/katja/

Labels: Airush, Kites

The name converse comes from the fact that the board is a surfboard when you take the straps off. Not a surf style kiteboard but a real true surfboard, hence one board for 2 disciplines. The 5'0" board from last year has been shelved - a shame - it was very lively and fantastic fun in small waves if not a little too nervous on the big days. The replacement is the 6'0" is the higher rockered board for those taking it into the real waves the 6'2" is now the lighter wind option for smaller waves and lighter wind use. Check out the wood... I have seen cobra's wood finish surfboards before and they are stunning - real coffee table works of art. The photo I saw posted n the new from Germany looks the same. They will be very pimpy!! The wood and regular board should be on display at the Poole Windfest, pricing is set to be £449 for the Regular construction and £529 for the wood. The wood is expensive I know, but I've already ordered mine! Product Overview • Airush introduced the fi rst true convertible in 2006 and have taken this concept to a new level for 07. • 6'0” Model for lighter riders and higher wind conditions. • Developed specifically to replace your light wind kite board in your quiver and give you the freedom to have one board for traveling - surfing and kiting. Code; Model; Sizes; AB07CN62 Airush Converse - 6ʼ2” 189.5 (6.2”) x 47.5 (18 3/4) AB07CN60 Airush Converse - 6ʼ0” 183 (6.0”) x 46 (18 1/4) AB07CW62 Airush Converse Wood - 6ʼ2” 189.5 (6.2 ”) x 47.5 (18 3/4) AB07CW60 Airush Converse Wood - 6ʼ0” 183 (6.0”) x 46 (18 1/4) Target User: • Traveling kiter who wants the versatility of having a surfboard for no wind days and a light wind kiteboard. • Dedicated strapless or strapped surf kiter who would like to have the enhanced durability when compared to a normal surfboard. Compared to Exile and switch 144: Directional design for more dedicated wave performance. Tech Features: Rails Tucked surf rails based on a small to medium wave surf requirements Rocker The Converse 6'2 features a rocker oriented towards smaller wave surfing and light wind kiting. The 6ʼ0” is a more progressive rocker for all round wave use. Flex A Biaxial layup ensures flfl ex characteristics similar to a polyester surfboard, but with the weight characteristics of sandwich construction. Bottom shape Single concave bottom for early planning, control and a smooth ride in chop. Outline A dedicated small to medium wave Surfboard outline. This works together with all the other aspects of the Converse 6ʼ2” design for perfect waveriding in light to medium wind conditions. 6'0” features a more progressive outline for all round wave use ideal for bigger waves or higher wind use. Fins FCS fifi ns with PVC reinforced inserts Flytech The Flytech construction is suitable for high volume kiteboards due to its low density and therefore core weight. The lightweight core is combined with unidirectional and standard glass. This lay up ensures that the boards remain as light as possible and still survive the abuse. The Flytech construction allows us to feature a tucked rail shape, which is more forgiving and ideal for surf oriented products.

Labels: Airush, board, Kites

irush Hammer '07

The Hammer is a very unusual board - for this reason it was not a big seller in the UK until Kiteworld got their hands on it early summer. After that article you couldn't find one in the UK -

Really popular in the OZ the original board came from the French Airush rider Julian Sudrat who used this shape as his stock twin tip. It's a Wave riding twin that has one main difference - it's really allround and is increadibly comfortable in really rough chppy conditions.

The board has thick mid rails much like a surfboard; plenty of carving grip.. Flip tips to stop you going over the front when you come back down the wave.. thin tips and fairly large centrally placed fins for carving stability and maintain a surfing outline, flex in the tip sections of the board for control and qhite a reasonable volume considering the ultra flat TT's we are used to seeing today.

Don't be put off by the shape of these boards - they are very good - conventional is not always right!





Product Overview
• Developed from a traditional twintip and worked to enhance the wave riding capabilities radically without loosing the ease of use.
• Originally conceived to be a dedicated wave riding twintip the Hammer also proved to be a huge stand out in very choppy conditions.
• Due to the popularity of this board a new 144 size has been introduced for heavier riders and lighter winds.

Code; Model; Sizes;
AB07HA138 Hammer 138 138cm x 38.5cm
AB07HA144 Hammer 144 144cm x 42cm

Target User
Rider who still wants twin tip versatility but rides in waves.
Rider who kites in extremely choppy and rough conditions, or prefers a
slightly longer board.

Rails
Tucked Surf Rails through the center of the board to allow a positive driving bottom turn. A hard edge through the last 1⁄4 of the board to keep speed and bite when coming off the top.

Rocker
Three stage “Wave” rocker with slightly increased rocker in the tip area for clearance and increased turning.

Tip Shape and Flex
A narrower tail with more curve in the rear section of the outline, combined with reduced thickness and increased flfl ex in the tail. The result is maximum snap when coming off the top.

Bottom shape
Double V Concave into spiral V – This bottom shape was developed with
two outcomes in mind. Firstly to enhance the directional stability of the board without the need for massive fifi ns and secondly to give a positive drive when rolling the board over from the heel edge to the toe edge when initiating a turn.

Overall Planform
Compared to a medium size freestyle board the Hammer has increased
water line length and a slightly narrower width to enhance stability on the
wave

Fins
The Code fin provides maximum grip for waveriding and is designed to limit the front catching.

Construction



X-link LT Construction
Our premium construction illustrating perfect flfl ex and a bombproof
construction with our X-Link PVC core. Boards featuring our X-Link Lt
construction use a combination of the high density core with unidirectional
and biaxial cloth, together with wood reinforcing in the high impact heel
areas. A full top and bottom rail wrap allows for a soft hand shaped rail
ensuring the board is more forgiving and stable to ride. A top sheet layer on the bottom deck enhances the durability without limiting the flex characteristics.

Labels: Airush, board, Speed

"The thing you can always say about airush is that they never try and shoehorn the sport of kitesurfing into one product. It makes my life hell trying to guess what everyone will want, but at least they cover all the bases!! This year Airush are going with three bow kites, two hybrids and one pure bow.....more after the jump.









Product Overview
• Combines the incredible wind range and sheeting ability of a BOW kite with the direct steering and bar simplicity of a 4 line kite.
• Excellent for all level of riding from dedicated wave riding to dedicated freestyle.
• Perfect for hooked in and unhooked riding.
• Radically reduced bar pressure compared to 2006
• Completely re engineered new generation Hybrid/SLE.
• Radically increased wind range and safety
• Increased low wind performance

Control Bar overview; dedicated Flow control bar featuring:
• Functional pulley free control bar.
• Modular control bar design to allow for multi functional leash, depower and line configuration.
• On the fly stopper ball, for easy bar adjustments

Compared to the DNA
• The flow has a faster turning speed.
• The flow has more of a flatter profile for improved upwind ability and high wind performance

Compared to the Lift
• The Flow has increased wind range due to the Hybrid/SLE design.

Buy this kite if you want:
• A new generation all round performance kite

Target customer
• Advanced beginner to Pro riders.
• Suitable for wave, freeride and freestyle

Key Selling points
• New generation design
• Large windrange
• Easy handling
• Extremely predictable
• Simple to re launch
• Aluminium shaft pump on all sizes
• Auto deflators on ball valves
• Heavy-duty bag with extendable section
• Excellent for all standards of rider

Sizes and spec
Product Code Model Bar Length
AK07FL05 Flow SLE 05 45cm
AK07FL07 Flow SLE 07 45cm
AK07FL10 Flow SLE 10 45cm
AK07FL12 Flow SLE 12 55cm
AK07FL14 Flow SLE 14 55cm
AK07FL16 Flow SLE 16 65cm

Labels: Airush, Kites, Speed

August 3rd, 2006

2006 Fuerteventura World Cup – Day 2

Fuerteventura PKRA Kiteboarding Grand Prix 2006

Competitors and spectators were greeted to more incredible wind and clear skies in Fuerteventura for the second day of the PKRA Grand Prix 2006. The riders rigged up their smaller kites to handle the gusty 25 to 30 knots of wind and PKRA officials continued to run two man heats instead of four for safety reasons as well as ease of judging. The first riders took to the water around 11 am for the continuation of the single elimination tournament, which was successfully completed by 4 pm. Conditions were challenging for the competitors as the waves continued to grow in size throughout the afternoon, nonetheless they persevered, striving for the goal of close to $50,000 USD in prize money.

In the first heat of the day, Mallory De la Villemarqué (North, France) landed a technical frontside 3 against Youri Zoon (Slingshot, Netherlands), however, he did not exhibit enough variety and power to secure a spot in the next round. Best team members, Alvaro Onieva (Spain) and Bas Koole (Netherlands) ripped up the water next. Alvaro displayed his usual bag full of tricks including a blind judge, a back to blind, a raley to blind, a hasselhoff, a double front to blind, and a mobe to advance against his teammate, Bas. Cesar Portas (North, Spain) and Philipp Brückmann (Carved, Germany) followed, with Cesar nailing a powerful mobe to downloop and a blind judge to stay in the tournament before meeting up with Kevin Langeree (Naish, Netherlands) in the third round.

In arguably the best seven minutes of kiteboarding for the day, Ruben Lenten (Slingshot, Netherlands) and cousin, Kevin Langeree were on fire, shooting off trick after trick, getting the crowd cheering. Kevin nailed a sweet frontside 3, a handlepass, an amazing mobe 5, a KGB, and a hasselhoff, while Ruben answered back by going big with an F16 grab and a kung fu. Ultimately, in a close judge’s decision, Kevin secured the win, advancing to the next round. Following the pair of Dutch cousins were Cabrinha team members Alberto Rondina (Italy) and Petr Tyushkevich (Russian Federation) in yet another exceptionally close heat. Alberto pulled off a nice slim, front to blind, and a backside 3, but it wasn’t enough to defeat Petr’s arsenal of tricks such as a fat chance, 3-1-3, raley to blind, slim, and a frontside 3.

Rui Meira (Naish, Portugal) and Randy Hereman (F-One, Netherlands) battled it out in another close match, but Randy was on a mission, sticking a blind judge, a powerful mobe 5, and a kiteloop to move ahead into the next round of the single elimination tournament where he would meet up with PKRA points leader, Aaron Hadlow. Finishing up round two, Mikael Blomvall (JN Kites, Sweden) landed a nice blind judge, mobe, and slim to take out Lorenzo Giovanneli (Slingshot, Italy), while Aaron Hadlow (Flexifoil, UK) moved past Erik Volpe (Italy) with an aerial back to blind and a sick kiteloop handlepass

Third round action pitted Youri Zoon against Alvaro Onieva in a close heat, however, Youri was unstoppable, displaying tons of power and energy to earn his place in the semifinals. Kevin Langeree faced Cesar Portas in a heat where variety ended up being the key for success. Although Cesar nailed a strong mobe, blind judge and an aerial back to blind, Kevin was on like crazy glue, sticking an F16, a 3-1-3, a frontside 3, mobe to wrapped, KGB, and a hasselhoff to move on to meet fellow Nethlerlander, Zoon in the next round. Petr Tyushkevich, also showed off a variety of powerful tricks, blasting a sick fat chance, slim chance, and blind judge to advance against Mikael Blomvall, who rallied valiantly with an aerial back to blind and double S bend. Next out of the gate were Randy Hereman and Aaron Hadlow, both going for it and giving the beach plenty to cheer about. Randy landed a powerful raley to blind and super powered kiteloop, however, Aaron continued to impress the judges with his variety and clean, technical moves giving him the edge over Hereman.

The beach was in a frenzy for the semifinals with the intense action on the water. Aaron Hadlow and Petr Tyushkevich both were charging, using the waves and trying to outdo each other. Aaron ended up the victor based on variety and power of his tricks, even giving the crowd a show with a huge, high kiteloop close to the beach. Also in the semifinals, fellow Dutchmen, Kevin Langeree and Youri Zoon put on an amazing display of moves, each rider wanting a spot in the finals versus Hadlow. Youri stuck a mega kiteloop, a kung fu 3, and a technical front mobe, but it wasn’t enough to stop the energy-filled Kevin from advancing with a powerful frontside 3, KGB, and difficult mobe 5.

The close competition continued in the loser’s final where Youri squared off against Petr. Youri banged out a huge F16, front mobe, handlepass with a 360, and a quality blind judge 3 to secure him third place overall. The men’s single elimination finals once again paired rivals Kevin Langeree and Aaron Hadlow in a nailbiting showdown. Kevin, eager for another win, was ripping, landing a frontside 3, a sick hasselhoff, and an aerial back to blind, but it was not quite enough to edge out Aaron, who was determined to take first, nailing an F16, an aerial back to blind, and a massive kiteloop. Kevin will have a chance to seize the top spot in the tournament during the double eliminations, which begin tomorrow.

First up for the women were Angela Peral (North, Spain) and Karolina Winkowska (Naish, Poland). Karolina dominated the heat with lots of variety, such as a kung fu, big air jumps with grabs, and riding to blind. The next heat featured Ania Grzelinska (North, Poland) versus Wiktoria Boszko (North, Poland) in an incredibly close bout. Ania blasted off a kiteloop, a front, a back, and a raley, but North teammate, Wiktoria, edged past her with a nice back roll, krypt, and a very technical raley to blind with surface handlepass. Jo Wilson (Naish, UK) then faced off against Pauline Boussard (Wipika, France). Jo tore up the water, getting lots of air with grabs and showing off a variety of powered tricks, meanwhile, Pauline landed front and back rolls, and a one foot jump, but it wasn’t enough to prevail against the determined Brit.

In one of the most exciting heats of the day, World Champion Kristin Boese (Best, Germany) faced Gisela Pulido (Airush, Spain). Both nailed technical handlepasses, though Kristin pulled out the victory with more unhooked tricks, like the back to wrapped and the raley to blind, to move on to the semifinals. In the women’s semifinals, Wiktoria Boszko was overpowered in the strong winds, which allowed Karolina Winkowska to advance with a front to blind, a krypt, a surface pass, and a kung fu. The superstar performer of the day, Jo Wilson, continued her charge, landing a front spin with a grab, a sick raley, an indy, a krypt, and a front to toeside, for the upset over Kristin Boese, to advance to the finals.

The loser’s final featured Kristin versus Wiktoria Boszko. Kristin was charging with a perfectly executed front roll with a grab, a raley, an unhooked double front, and a krypt, securing third place in the women’s single elimination tournament. The women’s final between Jo Wilson and Karolina Winkowska was action packed. Karolina stuck a variety of tricks, including a kung fu and a krypt, but it wasn’t enough to stop Jo Wilson from taking first place with her big air grabs and powered moves. Kristin, Wiktoria and Karolina will have a second chance in the double elimination tournament starting tomorrow to continue their quest for the top position overall.

The Speed Grand Prix event has been extremely challenging so far with sideshore winds and large waves to contend against. The morning runs, when the water is a bit flatter, have proven better for results, with speeds hitting the 40 knot mark. Currently Christophe Prin-Guenon (Naish, France) is in first place for the men with 1.4 total points and a top speed of 40.75 knots - only .04 knots away from the world record! Charlotte Consorti (France, F-One) is in the number one position for the women with 2.7 points overall and a top speed of 29.55 knots. Many riders have been experiencing extreme crashes and suffering broken bones as a result. Yesterday, speed rider John Grimm (Best, US) was taken to the hospital after a wipe out left him with two broken ribs, but today he was seen walking around the event site encouraging fellow riders, although disappointed to be out of the competition. Tomorrow promises more excitement on the speed course as past world record holder Manu Taub (Wipika, France), along with last year’s winner Sebastien Cattalan (France), continue their pursuit of the new world record.

The skipper’s meeting is at 10 am tomorrow with a first possible start at 11 am. Riders will try to move ahead in the competition rankings during the double elimination tournament, which begins tomorrow. A DJ will be in the event tent starting at 11 pm tonight and every night this week.

Be sure to check out www.caribbeanwinds.com for a live tournament ladder, updated statistics, great photos, and videos of the event!

For live results and contest ladders log on to:
Caribbeanwinds.com

Labels: Airush, Best Kiteboarding, Cabrinha, Competition, Contest, Naish, North, Pulido, Ruben Lenten, Speed

Airush 2007 kites; technical info
Airush have been busy since the release of the Halo back in late Decmber, and now it's time for the new model year. What follows after this is their own rundown of the range and how it all fits together as part of a well thought out range.

To summarise it all for you their 5 kite model range from '06 (4 C kites, one bow) has been redesigned to the same number of models (5) but 3 Bow kites and Two C's. There will be individual writeups on all the three bow kites further into the trade expo section.

all new kite; DNA bow
Three strut Hybrid Bow, 4 line, for beginners and waveriders. A well hyped kite on the net already it's simple and very effective. Available early Sept.

all new kite; FLOW SLE bow
All new hybrid performance bow kite - depowers like a pure bow, feels just like a C kite. Available 3 weeks (mid/late August).

all new kite; HALO '07 bow
Refinement of this years 4 line pure bow (pullys on the bar - Available mid to late Sept)

all new kite; LIFT '07 C kite
A refinement on the 2006 Freeride 4 or 5 line C kite. Special order only.

all new kite; REACTOR '07 C kite
The superfast 5 ine C for waveriding, freestyle and general lunacy! Special order only.

I have had early prototypes of the Lift, DNA and Flow SLE to try so far and will post up more realworld explanations to them on their individual posts in trade expo.

This is how Airush explain the 2007 lineup;
Kite Technology
2007 has seen a breakthrough in development of the geometry of each specific model to meet each rider’s performance requirement. We have focused on the unique demands of each level and rider group and enhanced each model to exceed their expectations.

Planform
With the introduction of swept wingtip designs, supported leading edges and increased depower, planform is critical in determining a kites performance. The figure below illustrates the huge differentiation between the curvature of the leading edges, positioning of the wingtips in relation to the center of effort and trailing edge shape.
Comparisons of the Lift and Reactor show the slightly more traditional shape of the Lift when compared to the wider wingtips and reduced Span to chord ratio of the Reactor.
With the Supported Leading edge kites (DNA, Flow & Halo) a more curved leading edge allows easier relaunch, and works together with the swept wingtip enhancing the depower.




Wingtip Configuration
A closer look at wingtip configuration and the positioning of the front tow point on each design allows you to understand the effect on sheeting, steering and depower.
On Hybrid Kites, the reduced sweep of the wingtip on the DNA and Flow means a pulley system is not required to achieve a given amount of de power. By avoiding the pulleys the steering is more direct with more feedback from the kite, allowing you to “feel” where the kite is in the window. Limiting the curvature of the leading edge reduces the relaunch slightly (although still significantly easier than a C-Kite).
The larger sweep on the Halo’s (which offers the best rollover relaunch) requires a 2/1 pulley ratio to ensure the bar remains within the riders reach while allowing maximum sheeting. A defining factor on the performance difference between the Reactor and Lift is the difference in wingtip size. The wider wingtips on the Reactor allow the kite to turn positively even at extreme angles of attack.

Airush 2007 kites; technical info

Airush have been busy since the release of the Halo back in late Decmber, and now it's time for the new model year. What follows after this is their own rundown of the range and how it all fits together as part of a well thought out range.

To summarise it all for you their 5 kite model range from '06 (4 C kites, one bow) has been redesigned to the same number of models (5) but 3 Bow kites and Two C's. There will be individual writeups on all the three bow kites further into the trade expo section.

all new kite; DNA bow
Three strut Hybrid Bow, 4 line, for beginners and waveriders. A well hyped kite on the net already it's simple and very effective. Available early Sept.

all new kite; FLOW SLE bow
All new hybrid performance bow kite - depowers like a pure bow, feels just like a C kite. Available 3 weeks (mid/late August).

all new kite; HALO '07 bow
Refinement of this years 4 line pure bow (pullys on the bar - Available mid to late Sept)

all new kite; LIFT '07 C kite
A refinement on the 2006 Freeride 4 or 5 line C kite. Special order only.

all new kite; REACTOR '07 C kite
The superfast 5 ine C for waveriding, freestyle and general lunacy! Special order only.

I have had early prototypes of the Lift, DNA and Flow SLE to try so far and will post up more realworld explanations to them on their individual posts in trade expo.

This is how Airush explain the 2007 lineup;

Kite Technology
2007 has seen a breakthrough in development of the geometry of each specific model to meet each rider’s performance requirement. We have focused on the unique demands of each level and rider group and enhanced each model to exceed their expectations.

Planform
With the introduction of swept wingtip designs, supported leading edges and increased depower, planform is critical in determining a kites performance. The figure below illustrates the huge differentiation between the curvature of the leading edges, positioning of the wingtips in relation to the center of effort and trailing edge shape.
Comparisons of the Lift and Reactor show the slightly more traditional shape of the Lift when compared to the wider wingtips and reduced Span to chord ratio of the Reactor.
With the Supported Leading edge kites (DNA, Flow & Halo) a more curved leading edge allows easier relaunch, and works together with the swept wingtip enhancing the depower.


Wingtip Configuration
A closer look at wingtip configuration and the positioning of the front tow point on each design allows you to understand the effect on sheeting, steering and depower.
On Hybrid Kites, the reduced sweep of the wingtip on the DNA and Flow means a pulley system is not required to achieve a given amount of de power. By avoiding the pulleys the steering is more direct with more feedback from the kite, allowing you to “feel” where the kite is in the window. Limiting the curvature of the leading edge reduces the relaunch slightly (although still significantly easier than a C-Kite).
The larger sweep on the Halo’s (which offers the best rollover relaunch) requires a 2/1 pulley ratio to ensure the bar remains within the riders reach while allowing maximum sheeting. A defining factor on the performance difference between the Reactor and Lift is the difference in wingtip size. The wider wingtips on the Reactor allow the kite to turn positively even at extreme angles of attack.


Foil shapes
Foil shapes on each model have been optimized to offer the best
compromise of speed and stability based on the rider requirements.
The finer the entry and shallower the draft, the faster the kite is through the air, the easier it goes upwind and the less drag you have from the canopy. By using a deeper draft and placing the C/E further forward (Less fine entry) the kite becomes more stable and generates more low-end power with less rider input. This can be viewed below as a progression from the DNA as absolute ease of use, to the Reactor on the other extreme for absolute performance.


Canopy Curve
A large amount of development has been put into varying the shape of the arc on the canopy through a combination of bridling, Structural LE shaping and canopy shaping.
Kites featuring a flatter Arc provide more power for a given kite size but can be more prone to inversion especially when used with bridles. This should be viewed in conjunction with the amount of sweep in the wingtips. In addition flatter canopies allow more depower from the kite, as this increases the kites ability to be sheeted out. Canopies with a more traditional C shape have less drift and more positive steering due to the increased vertical component in the wingtip, which enhances directional stability.
By testing and optimizing each model of kite, and at the same time each size of kite, we have ensured the best balance of performance and stability for each user group.

Labels: Airush, Kites, Speed

Kiteblogs.com » Blog Archive » International Kitesurfing project “TradeWind” on the ISPO summer 06: "International Kitesurfing project “TradeWind” on the ISPO summer 06

For the first time leading brands of the kitesurfing-industry present themselves on a common fair platform at the ISPO summer 06 in Munich, held from the 16th to the 18th of July.

Kitesurfing is a new, thrilling sport, which is easy to learn. The ISPO project “TradeWind” in hall 3 will unite leading brands at an international level. Nowadays confirmed brands are Naish Kiteboarding, Airush, Ocean Rodeo, DaKine, Brunotti Boards, Maui Magic, Advance Kites, Best Kiteboarding, Mystic Kitesurfing und Slingshot Kiteboarding. The kite-industry starts its first common appearance with a huge contingent of newest material and will present international stars of the kitesurf scene.

The „History of Kitesurfing“ of the last five to six years is represented. Antique kite-equipment is issued and legends of the kite sports like Flash Austin and Robby Naish are portrayed.

Besides, the development of the kites from two-, four up to five lines and newest developments of bow- and hybridkites and different safety systems are documented.

International stars like Kristin Boese, the acting world champion and Silvester Ruckdäschel, German master, will be guests on the show stage. In addition, experts of the kitesports will be interviewed.

The fair platform is suited very well to introduce kitesurfing to a wide professional audience from sports trade, industry and media."

Labels: Airush, Best Kiteboarding, Naish

Labels: Airush, Kites

US Open Kiteboarding Results: "2005 US Open Kiteboarding Championship Results

Outlaw Men - Expression Session
1) Kent Graninger - $500 & DaKine product (California, Cabrinha)
2) Ben Kleppe - $300 & DaKine Product (Florida, Slingshot)
3) Scott Cox - $150 & DaKine Product (California, Cabrinha)

Pro Women - Expression Session
1) Morgan Skipperdene - $1,000 (North Carolina, Airush)
2) Julie Simsar - $500 (Puerto Rico, Flexifoil)
3) Bri Chmel - $250 (California, RRD)
4) Gail Zacaii - $150 (Oregon, Wipika)

Pro Men - Expression Session
1) Clinton Bolton - $1,000 (South Africa, Best)
2) Sky Solbach - $500 (Bon Aire, North)
3) Andy Hurdamna - $250 (Florida, Best)
4) Shannon Best - (Florida, Best)
5) Adam Koch - (California, Naish)
6) John Modica - (Florida, Cabrinha)

*****BOARDER CROSS*****

Outlaw Men - Boarder Cross
1) Scott Cox - $500 (California, Cabrinha)
2) Kent Graninger - $300 (California, Cabrinha)
3) Ben Kleppe - $200 (Florida, Slingshot)
4) Jeff Nelson - $100 (Florida, North)
5) Jay Stebbins - $50 (Conneticut, Best)

Pro Women - Boarder Cross
1) Morgan Skipperdene - $1,500 (North Carolina, Airush)
2) Julie Simsar - $1000 (Puerto Rico, Flexifoil)
3) Bri Chmel - $750 (California, RRD)
4) Gail Zacaii - $300 (Oregon, Wipika)

Pro Men - Boarder Cross
1) Sky Solbach - $1,500 (Bon Aire, North)
2) Adam Koch - $1,000 (California, Naish)
3) Mike Danish - $750 (TEXAS, North)
4) Shannon Best - $500 (Florida, Best)
5) Clinton Bolton - $250 (South Africa, Best)
6) Denver Coon - $200 (Hawaii, RRD)
7) Andy Hurdaman - $150 (Florida, Best)
8) Brad Lange - $100 - (Florida, Best)"

Labels: Airush, Best Kiteboarding, Cabrinha, Naish, North, south africa